The best way to experience Girdwood, Alaska is to set a base camp at the Girdwood Alaska Backpackers Inn. With GABI’s great location near the Seward Highway, shuttle bus and train stops, bike paths, and the local Girdwood shuttle Glacier Valley Transit, a person only needs to focus on the adventure and not the logistics.

Nestled between Turnagain Arm of Cook Inlet and the Chugach Mountains, this former mining town offers abundant outdoor activities including glacier dog sled tour, hiking, paragliding, fishing, whitewater rafting, historic mining tours, sea kayaking, climbing, road bicycle, cross country skiing, rainforest canopy zipline, tour packages, and something special not found in everyday Alaska: the Alyeska Resort, a world class ski resort that also offers summer tram rides to hikers and mountain bikers.

Because of its proximity to the city of Anchorage, visitors do not need to travel far to purchase the supplies needed to equip themselves for a Girdwood adventure. When planning your trip, keep in mind some travelers have stayed for 3 days and some still haven’t left!

When staying at GABI, a traveler immediately notices the clean and safe environment. This means that on a day hike there won’t be any lingering doubts about one’s possessions locked away at GABI. A traveler only needs to focus on the grizzly bear meandering in the meadow or ponder the life cycle of the returning king salmon.

When not exploring the Chugach Mountains or lounging in the common room, explore the hostel. The hostel building has been renovated with the goal to be LEED certified. Check out the pull chain showers, dual flushing toilets, and dual light switches.

Today is your day! Your mountain is waiting. So…get on your way. ~Dr. Seuss